We are beginning to get some information about protests in Saudi Arabia, specifically in Awamiyah or Qatif. We have also heard that two letters were sent to King Abdullah. One of the letters was sent from people who have influence with big business men asking them to change the system to a republic. The chances of these people being arrested are very high. The other letter was sent by university students asking for demands such as more freedom and to stop discrimination. Both letters were hand delivered to King Abdullah.
Pray that as the king reads both of these letters, his heart will be softened toward the people in his country. Pray for the youth that are the ones leading these protests. Pray that they will channel their energy toward Jesus rather than violence.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Libya: Violence is worse than you see on news
Media reports claim it's "civil war-like" in Libya as anti-government protests are now being put down by pro-Gaddafi mercenaries. Open report suggests hundreds have been killed. As Libya continues to spin out of control, Christians are wondering how the chaos will affect them.
President of Open Doors USA Carl Moeller says according to their people on the ground, its worse than what's being reported on television. "The police have abandoned the streets in Tripoli. And it seems mercenaries are being used to target people in the streets; literally hundreds of people have been killed. And the chaos is intense right now."
Many have likened this situation to a civil war, but Moeller says this could spiral into a tribal war. "On the eastern side of the country, in Benghazi, that city is almost completely free, if not completely free from government forces because it's from a different tribe than Gaddafi's tribe that controls Tripoli."
The fear is that as Gaddafi holds on to power, the country will be thrown into even more turmoil. Moeller says, "The country can plunge into economic chaos. Gaddafi has pledged to blow up all the oil lines and other things. And it could become a tribal-based civil war where only the Lord knows who will emerge from that situation."
President of Open Doors USA Carl Moeller says according to their people on the ground, its worse than what's being reported on television. "The police have abandoned the streets in Tripoli. And it seems mercenaries are being used to target people in the streets; literally hundreds of people have been killed. And the chaos is intense right now."
Many have likened this situation to a civil war, but Moeller says this could spiral into a tribal war. "On the eastern side of the country, in Benghazi, that city is almost completely free, if not completely free from government forces because it's from a different tribe than Gaddafi's tribe that controls Tripoli."
The fear is that as Gaddafi holds on to power, the country will be thrown into even more turmoil. Moeller says, "The country can plunge into economic chaos. Gaddafi has pledged to blow up all the oil lines and other things. And it could become a tribal-based civil war where only the Lord knows who will emerge from that situation."
Week of Prayer for the Arab World
In light of what is happening here and the rest of North Africa I would like to call a 24/7 prayer week starting next week which will be Monday Feb 28th until March 6th. To sign up for slots see instructions below. I think this is a significant time in the arab world and it would be awesome to see us all coming together for prayer.
Also if you know of anyone else in the country or even outside the country that would love to stand with us in prayer that would be great feel free to send them invitations the more the better. I feel we need to pray, pray, pray.
So let’s see if we can fill the week and who knows he may tell us to keep going .
1. Go to : https://www.google.com/calendar
2. Sign in details :email (note the underscore) : yarp_ing@yahoo.com password : yarp4moroc (note it is mOroc not mAroc)
3. You will then see the calendar. Along the top you will see the date of the current week shown.
4. Click the arrow key till you get to Feb 28 - Mar 6.
5. Click on the day and time you want to sign up for and a box will pop up.
6. Type in your initials and then click “create event”.
7. You should then be able to see your initials in the calendar.
Multiple people can sign up into the same box, but let's see how many different hrs we can cover.
8. Click “sign out” at the top right corner before you leave.
Also if you know of anyone else in the country or even outside the country that would love to stand with us in prayer that would be great feel free to send them invitations the more the better. I feel we need to pray, pray, pray.
So let’s see if we can fill the week and who knows he may tell us to keep going .
1. Go to : https://www.google.com/calendar
2. Sign in details :email (note the underscore) : yarp_ing@yahoo.com password : yarp4moroc (note it is mOroc not mAroc)
3. You will then see the calendar. Along the top you will see the date of the current week shown.
4. Click the arrow key till you get to Feb 28 - Mar 6.
5. Click on the day and time you want to sign up for and a box will pop up.
6. Type in your initials and then click “create event”.
7. You should then be able to see your initials in the calendar.
Multiple people can sign up into the same box, but let's see how many different hrs we can cover.
8. Click “sign out” at the top right corner before you leave.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Pray for Lebanon
In the midst of turmoil across the Arab World Lebanon has probably benefited by these uprisings happening in nearby countries. With focus elsewhere it has taken the pressure off Najib Miqati, the new prime minister elect, to form a new government. In the middle of January Hezbollah led a walkout on the Prime Minister Saad Hariri. Najib Miqati has been trying to form a new government, however, pro-Hariri supporters are refusing to be a part of it. Lebanon's diversity makes for confusing power plays. Every side is trying to protect it's own position of influence. Not only are political divisions based on religion, but there's also a complex number of coalitions, which cross religious divides. Truly it must be the Lord who gives wisdom and restraint. Many people (Shi'a Muslims) in the South of Lebanon see Hezbollah as the party that looks after them and fights for them. Many others (Sunni Muslims and Christians) in the North of Lebanon are completely opposed to Hezbollah, believing that they want to form an Iranian style government. If you're not confused by the situation, well done!
Please pray for the leaders from all sides.
Pray that the Lord would give great wisdom. At the end of the day most Lebanese care most about providing for their families, stability, continuous electricity supply, etc.
Please pray for the leaders from all sides.
Pray that the Lord would give great wisdom. At the end of the day most Lebanese care most about providing for their families, stability, continuous electricity supply, etc.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Pictures, Notes and Scriptures from Libya
From a prayer team who traveled through North Africa in January : Someone had a picture for Libya : The picture was of two brick towers with a suspension bridge strung between them. The two towers came down, and as a result the bridge sagged and then was no longer "viable". It seemed that the two towers were Tunisia and Egypt with Libya the suspension bridge between. Interesting that both Tunisia, then Egypt fell and now Libya is seemingly going this way too.
---------------------
From a person living in the region : Prior to this picture above, this person was led to read from Isaiah 30.
Isa.30:25: "and on every lofty mountain and every high hill there will be brooks running with water, in the day of the great slaughter, WHEN THE TOWERS FALL. vs.26 - Moreover, the light of the moon will be as the light of the sun and the light of the sun will be sevenfold, as the light of seven days, in the day that the Lord binds up the brokenness of his people, and heals the wounds inflicted by his bow."
----------------------
Interesting!
Did you see the media articles about the sun? :
The sun has unleashed its strongest flare in four years and researchers say the sun has been awakening after a period of several years of low activity:
The stars are singing louder now than before!!
When you read the Isaiah passage above and then reflect that the whole cosmos seems to be straining right now!! WOW!!
---------------------
We need to pray now for God to push through the full extent of his purposes across the region. God is shaking nations, and allowing them to be shaken. What will we do with the opportunity? Luke 19:16-17.
Strategically, stay in worship. Someone was saying to me yesterday that it's almost too overwhelming to know what to pray in the heat of the moment, but we can rest in faith knowing that God has been leading us these long months and years of watching and praying and laying a foundation of prayer for events BEFORE they happen. Now we can focus on the First Commandment and release ourselves in adoration of the Lamb who judges and reveals his righteous acts. And ask God to reveal what's next, when the dust settles."
Oh LORD! Have mercy. Set this nation free!
Lord, hear our prayers and receive our worship in these days!
---------------------
From a person living in the region : Prior to this picture above, this person was led to read from Isaiah 30.
Isa.30:25: "and on every lofty mountain and every high hill there will be brooks running with water, in the day of the great slaughter, WHEN THE TOWERS FALL. vs.26 - Moreover, the light of the moon will be as the light of the sun and the light of the sun will be sevenfold, as the light of seven days, in the day that the Lord binds up the brokenness of his people, and heals the wounds inflicted by his bow."
----------------------
Interesting!
Did you see the media articles about the sun? :
The sun has unleashed its strongest flare in four years and researchers say the sun has been awakening after a period of several years of low activity:
The stars are singing louder now than before!!
When you read the Isaiah passage above and then reflect that the whole cosmos seems to be straining right now!! WOW!!
---------------------
We need to pray now for God to push through the full extent of his purposes across the region. God is shaking nations, and allowing them to be shaken. What will we do with the opportunity? Luke 19:16-17.
Strategically, stay in worship. Someone was saying to me yesterday that it's almost too overwhelming to know what to pray in the heat of the moment, but we can rest in faith knowing that God has been leading us these long months and years of watching and praying and laying a foundation of prayer for events BEFORE they happen. Now we can focus on the First Commandment and release ourselves in adoration of the Lamb who judges and reveals his righteous acts. And ask God to reveal what's next, when the dust settles."
Oh LORD! Have mercy. Set this nation free!
Lord, hear our prayers and receive our worship in these days!
Ongoing prayer for Libya- from a friend in the country
You wont believe this… but we think God has answered your prayers in the weirdest way…
There is a MASSIVE black cloud hanging over Tripoli – mainly Green Square area – and it has been pouring with rain since about 2100. We are not entirely sure if this is what has prevented both sides from coming out – but it has gone completely quiet – there is NO one on the streets around us – and only distant sporadic gunfire!
Considering that there was meant to be a MASSIVE march on Green Square tonight by all the people, this is so weird! But maybe God’s answer to all the prayers… We are worried that the activity may just have shifted somewhere else. Reports coming in seem to indicate Zawia under attack (30 mins to west of Trip), and we have heard from another, who says her brother is at the hospital in Tajura (30 mins to the east) – and they are full to overflowing with casualties, and the hospital itself is under attack by the armed forces! That was about 3 hours ago… but the city itself deathly quiet… only the sound of the rain!
So please pass this on to everyone, and thank them for their prayers. We think God has prevented a bloodbath here tonight. Because that is what would have happened if they had come out, because the armed forces were ready for them. So not sure what will happen next – if this has just deferred the action, our God is the God of miracles! KEEP PRAYING
There is a MASSIVE black cloud hanging over Tripoli – mainly Green Square area – and it has been pouring with rain since about 2100. We are not entirely sure if this is what has prevented both sides from coming out – but it has gone completely quiet – there is NO one on the streets around us – and only distant sporadic gunfire!
Considering that there was meant to be a MASSIVE march on Green Square tonight by all the people, this is so weird! But maybe God’s answer to all the prayers… We are worried that the activity may just have shifted somewhere else. Reports coming in seem to indicate Zawia under attack (30 mins to west of Trip), and we have heard from another, who says her brother is at the hospital in Tajura (30 mins to the east) – and they are full to overflowing with casualties, and the hospital itself is under attack by the armed forces! That was about 3 hours ago… but the city itself deathly quiet… only the sound of the rain!
So please pass this on to everyone, and thank them for their prayers. We think God has prevented a bloodbath here tonight. Because that is what would have happened if they had come out, because the armed forces were ready for them. So not sure what will happen next – if this has just deferred the action, our God is the God of miracles! KEEP PRAYING
News on the Protests in Morocco
The news programs on both 2M and Rabat 1 (midday and tonight Sunday) were very open and thorough in covering events in country today. Both showed footage and reporting from various demonstrations across the country (Casa, Rabat, Tanger, Marrakech, Laayoune, Agadir) and spent ½ hr on discussing today’s events. They showed statements from participants and from many party leaders as well. People were very willing to give their names. While the numbers may have been lower than expected, for most situations it seems that they were peaceful demonstrations. The news also reported some vandalism occurred in Marrakech, Al Hoceima and Larache. When commenting on such they said it was normal as it occurs even in France. You can watch the reportage online at www.2m.ma/Infos (click on the news program under Infos Dimanche 20 Fev.)
Numbers protesting vary from 40 in Laayoune according to to a few thousand in Rabat, Casa, Agadir or Marrakech. There was report of tear gas used in Al Hoceima after a police station was stormed in one article and police intervention with looters in Marrrakech.
Numbers protesting vary from 40 in Laayoune according to to a few thousand in Rabat, Casa, Agadir or Marrakech. There was report of tear gas used in Al Hoceima after a police station was stormed in one article and police intervention with looters in Marrrakech.
Monday, February 21, 2011
From A Friend In The Region: Middle East Being Shaken
Yet again it is an "interesting" time to be living in the Middle East. I believe as Christians our primary concern is always about the cause of the Gospel and some of these regime changes, even though they will quite possibly lead to more democratic institutions, could very well lead to more oppressive islamic regimes as the radical muslims may try to take advantage of the new situations. As much as I may prefer democracy to other forms of government, I am more concerned about the Gospel than a political ideology created by man. If there is a just absolute monarch who protects the freedom of religion, then I much prefer that to a democracy that leads to another Afghanistan being formed. Pray that whatever ³replaces² the regimes that have either fallen or which come down in the coming weeks, will actually cause the Kingdom of God to expand in the greatest possible way.
In depth: Arab world unrest
LIBYA: The premier denounced a "plot" to turn his country into a terrorist base, as anti-regime protests reached the capital and world powers slammed an iron-fisted crackdown said to have cost hundreds of lives.
IRAN: A massive police deployment in Tehran prevented large-scale protests from erupting, although Iranian opposition websites reported stray clashes and officials said the capital remained calm.
BAHRAIN: Bahrain's Sunni Muslim ruling family came under increased pressure to open in-depth talks with the Shiite-led opposition, as protesters erected more tents on the capital's Pearl Square and unions called off a strike.
MOROCCO: Thousands staged rallies in Moroccan cities demanding political reform and limits on the powers of King Mohammed VI, with protesters shouting "the people want change."
KUWAIT: Hundreds of stateless Arabs demonstrated for the third day running to press for basic rights and citizenship of the oil-rich Gulf state, and Human Rights Watch called for the release of dozens detained on Friday.
YEMEN: Hundreds of students demonstrated on the eighth straight day of anti-regime protests in Sanaa, while police shot dead a protester in south Yemen and the opposition vowed to join protests.
EGYPT: Three police officers in Alexandria face questioning over the shooting of protesters in the early days of the Egyptian uprising, as banks reopened and workers at Egypt's largest factory ended a strike.
TUNISIA: Tunisia's interim government asked Saudi Arabia to extradite deposed strongman Zine El Abidine Ben Ali as it faced a second day of protests on the streets of Tunis, demanding its resignation.
DJIBOUTI: Djibouti authorities have "provisionally released" three top opposition leaders briefly detained after unprecedented protests demanding regime change, the state prosecutor said.
IRAQ: At least eight people, four police and four civilians, were reported wounded when clashes erupted during a rally in the Iraqi Kurdish city of Sulaimaniyah.
JORDAN: King Abdullah II urged speedy reforms, comprehensive dialogue and more efforts to battle corruption amid popular discontent and pro-reform protests.
SYRIA: A jailed Syrian Kurdish blogger and rights activist, Kamal Hussein Sheikho, is on a hunger strike, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
ALGERIA: Foreign Minister Mourad Medelci told Spain's El Pais newspaper the anti-government revolts in Tunisia and Egypt will not spread to Algeria, a day after riot police clashed with protesters in the center of Algiers.
PRAY:
• WORLD LEADERS—God sets up kings and deposes them; He changes times and seasons. Pray that these changes and shifts work to bring great glory to God and extend His kingdom among all peoples. Pray for opportunities for the gospel.
• HEART HUNGER – Pray for real heart hunger in every individual throughout the Arab World, particularly among those with the least access to the gospel, that they would long to know the Truth and be set free; pray they find true freedom in Jesus.
• RECONCILIATION – Hundreds of years of offense and strife have gendered bitter hostility between Christians, Jews and Arabs. Pray for God to soften the hearts of these, to heal the hurts, and to break down every dividing wall—making of them One New Man in Jesus Christ.
• CREATIVE ACCESS – Ask God to make a way where there seems to be no way to share His love and truth with those held in restricted access environments. Pray for believers to be ready to give an answer for the hope within them boldly and sensitively. Pray for protection for our sisters and brothers as they continue to be light and salt in these difficult environments.
• MODELS – Just as Jesus became flesh and dwelt among us so that we could know God, pray for believers who are willing to live incarnational lives among these groups, no matter what the challenges may be.
• STUDENTS – Young people are often seeking answers for deep questions of life. Pray that God directs them to those who can give them the Answer.
IRAN: A massive police deployment in Tehran prevented large-scale protests from erupting, although Iranian opposition websites reported stray clashes and officials said the capital remained calm.
BAHRAIN: Bahrain's Sunni Muslim ruling family came under increased pressure to open in-depth talks with the Shiite-led opposition, as protesters erected more tents on the capital's Pearl Square and unions called off a strike.
MOROCCO: Thousands staged rallies in Moroccan cities demanding political reform and limits on the powers of King Mohammed VI, with protesters shouting "the people want change."
KUWAIT: Hundreds of stateless Arabs demonstrated for the third day running to press for basic rights and citizenship of the oil-rich Gulf state, and Human Rights Watch called for the release of dozens detained on Friday.
YEMEN: Hundreds of students demonstrated on the eighth straight day of anti-regime protests in Sanaa, while police shot dead a protester in south Yemen and the opposition vowed to join protests.
EGYPT: Three police officers in Alexandria face questioning over the shooting of protesters in the early days of the Egyptian uprising, as banks reopened and workers at Egypt's largest factory ended a strike.
TUNISIA: Tunisia's interim government asked Saudi Arabia to extradite deposed strongman Zine El Abidine Ben Ali as it faced a second day of protests on the streets of Tunis, demanding its resignation.
DJIBOUTI: Djibouti authorities have "provisionally released" three top opposition leaders briefly detained after unprecedented protests demanding regime change, the state prosecutor said.
IRAQ: At least eight people, four police and four civilians, were reported wounded when clashes erupted during a rally in the Iraqi Kurdish city of Sulaimaniyah.
JORDAN: King Abdullah II urged speedy reforms, comprehensive dialogue and more efforts to battle corruption amid popular discontent and pro-reform protests.
SYRIA: A jailed Syrian Kurdish blogger and rights activist, Kamal Hussein Sheikho, is on a hunger strike, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
ALGERIA: Foreign Minister Mourad Medelci told Spain's El Pais newspaper the anti-government revolts in Tunisia and Egypt will not spread to Algeria, a day after riot police clashed with protesters in the center of Algiers.
PRAY:
• WORLD LEADERS—God sets up kings and deposes them; He changes times and seasons. Pray that these changes and shifts work to bring great glory to God and extend His kingdom among all peoples. Pray for opportunities for the gospel.
• HEART HUNGER – Pray for real heart hunger in every individual throughout the Arab World, particularly among those with the least access to the gospel, that they would long to know the Truth and be set free; pray they find true freedom in Jesus.
• RECONCILIATION – Hundreds of years of offense and strife have gendered bitter hostility between Christians, Jews and Arabs. Pray for God to soften the hearts of these, to heal the hurts, and to break down every dividing wall—making of them One New Man in Jesus Christ.
• CREATIVE ACCESS – Ask God to make a way where there seems to be no way to share His love and truth with those held in restricted access environments. Pray for believers to be ready to give an answer for the hope within them boldly and sensitively. Pray for protection for our sisters and brothers as they continue to be light and salt in these difficult environments.
• MODELS – Just as Jesus became flesh and dwelt among us so that we could know God, pray for believers who are willing to live incarnational lives among these groups, no matter what the challenges may be.
• STUDENTS – Young people are often seeking answers for deep questions of life. Pray that God directs them to those who can give them the Answer.
Please pray with us for the country of Bahrain.
Over the last several days, the Kingdom of Bahrain has witnessed a wave of violence and bloodshed, and on a scale that has baffled everyone. We believe that the resultant suffering and chaos in Bahrain is an opportunity for the gospel to take a deeper foothold in the Gulf. We are praying that in the midst of the turmoil, and as the country looks into the future, that this island known throughout history for its pearls (the "pearl roundabout" has now become a symbol of freedom and the future) will search for and find the greatest pearl of all. It was Samuel Zwemer who said, "Will you not pray earnestly for these islanders that in their search after pearls that they may seek and find the Pearl of Great Price?"
May this beloved little country in the Arabian Gulf find their Pearl of Great Price, and may they go and sell all in their possession to buy it.
May this beloved little country in the Arabian Gulf find their Pearl of Great Price, and may they go and sell all in their possession to buy it.
Friday, February 18, 2011
The Name of Christ Declared in Egypt!
After years and years of prayer by the Christians in Egypt for their country, at last we are starting to see an answer to our prayers! This is a testimony to what God is doing in our land, in spite of all the disturbances on the political scene that have affected the whole country, the whole Arab region, and the world.
On the 6th of February, the 13th day of the protests, the Egyptian people decided to name that day the “Day of the Martyrs” to pray and remember those who lost their lives (around 300 people) since the beginning of the protests revolution that started on the 25th of January. First, the Muslims prayed, with the Christians
forming a human belt around them to protect them, then the Christians were given a chance to speak on the platform in front of hundreds of thousands of Muslims. The Coptic Church refused to do Mass outside a church building, so our evangelical church said that of course they would do it! One of our elders, some worship leaders, and the youth pastor from our church in Cairo went to Tahrir Square (the central square in Cairo where all the masses of people were gathered), and went on stage proclaiming the name of Jesus and worshiping the Lord in public. This is the first time Christ has ever been proclaimed in public in Egypt, and hundreds of thousands of Muslims were listening and responsive to the message of peace that was delivered in the Name of Jesus.
Cries of “United as one” and “Let it be peaceful” were echoed and chanted by the
crowds. Our church elder told the crowd that we have a promise in the Bible that says blessed is Egypt My people, and they sang songs we had sung inside churches for years, but had never been allowed so sing in public. Songs with words like “Bless my country, You who hear the cry of all people, listen to the cry of our hearts, and send us the rain”, and also “Peace, peace for the people of Egypt, You left us the peace of God, unlike the peace of the world, and as long as your Spirit is living in is, Your people are always in peace”.
Then our church elder proclaimed to the crowd that over 2,000 years ago, a 30-year old man stood up against corruption. He stood for peace and was hated and killed for it. This Man is Jesus Christ, Issa Son of Mary, and in His Spirit we are standing now, calling for peace. “The spirit of peace will overcome hate, the spirit of truth will overcome the spirit of corruption”, he cried, and the people all cheered. “Egypt will be a land where there is freedom of worship, freedom and democracy for people of different faiths, Muslims Christians, or otherwise” he declared. “This is what we are praying for, a secular government, one people, a new society.
The Bible says ‘Perfect love drives away fear’ and this is what we have seen in the past 2 weeks: people loved their country, loved each other, and loved God, and they went out with no fear”. They then ended with a song that proclaimed Christ on our land, “This land belongs to the Son of God, you are the One who reigns in it, You are the Lord, You are God, lifted up in it…we will see Your promises, by your precious blood we will see miracles, Your cross protects us”
We were amazed at the people’s response, those hundreds of thousands of Muslims, as the elder ended with prayers, the people repeated after him or said “Amen”. They were prayers like “God teach us not to be afraid of fear, life is freedom, to
choose, and to live in peace, to love each other, and love You…Lord protect Egypt, Lord teach us to love each other, and love this country, bless Egypt Oh Lord”.
After it was over, one of the most famous Egyptian writers who had always written against Christians for years came to the elder, apologizing for all he had written, and promised to write this new side he had never seen of Christians coming in
the Name of Jesus speaking for love, peace, and justice.
Another Muslim public figure, noticing the absence of many Christians in the first few days of the protests, knew that we were fasting and praying for three days for the country, instead of going out in violence, and this is what he said on public TV… a wonderful testimony for Christ, given by a Muslim.
Since then, a prominent women asked permission for a few people from our church to
bring a few musical instruments, and every now and then, they gave them the platform to lead the people in prayer and worship. Once, this leader had them repeat the Lord’s Prayer after him!
How wonderful it is to hear the Name of Christ, and the Word of God declared in our land in freedom, after having been illegal to declare it in public.
For years, Christians have been trapped in fear, but also for years they have been praying for God’s boldness in sharing the Truth. And at last we are seeing it happen, and seeing more connection, new relationships built, and stronger unity between Christians and Muslims. We pray that God would turn all that is happening for His glory, for Christ to be glorified above all, and the gospel declared in Egypt, in the Middle East, and in all the nations!
Prayer Requests:
For wisdom and justice from the government and authorities in handling the change of government.
For the unknown future: danger of Islamic rule after change of governments and that the military of Egypt will not stand with pro-Muslim Brotherhood factions, and a smooth transition to a secular government.
That those who consider themselves Christians will express their deep frustration in a Christ-like honoring way, and not be tempted to “run” in troubled times.
That the Holy Spirit would bring spiritual revival to the Middle East through the prayers and witness of the Christians in these trouble times; and for many to know the real Savior as He reveals Himself and draws them to Him from all ends of the earth.
For protection of Christians across the Middle East
For the economy that has gone down and people who have lost their jobs in the last three weeks to recover quickly, and for the alleviation of poverty and unemployment.
For the church to be strengthened and for our ministry to grow and thrive in troubled times.
“In that day there will be an altar to the LORD in the heart of Egypt, and a monument to the LORD at its border. It will be a sign and witness to the LORD Almighty in the land of Egypt. When they cry out to the LORD because of their oppressors, He will send them a Savior and Defender, and He will rescue them. So the LORD will make Himself known to the Egyptians, and in that day they will acknowledge the LORD…Blessed be Egypt My people”. Isaiah 19:19-21, 25
On the 6th of February, the 13th day of the protests, the Egyptian people decided to name that day the “Day of the Martyrs” to pray and remember those who lost their lives (around 300 people) since the beginning of the protests revolution that started on the 25th of January. First, the Muslims prayed, with the Christians
forming a human belt around them to protect them, then the Christians were given a chance to speak on the platform in front of hundreds of thousands of Muslims. The Coptic Church refused to do Mass outside a church building, so our evangelical church said that of course they would do it! One of our elders, some worship leaders, and the youth pastor from our church in Cairo went to Tahrir Square (the central square in Cairo where all the masses of people were gathered), and went on stage proclaiming the name of Jesus and worshiping the Lord in public. This is the first time Christ has ever been proclaimed in public in Egypt, and hundreds of thousands of Muslims were listening and responsive to the message of peace that was delivered in the Name of Jesus.
Cries of “United as one” and “Let it be peaceful” were echoed and chanted by the
crowds. Our church elder told the crowd that we have a promise in the Bible that says blessed is Egypt My people, and they sang songs we had sung inside churches for years, but had never been allowed so sing in public. Songs with words like “Bless my country, You who hear the cry of all people, listen to the cry of our hearts, and send us the rain”, and also “Peace, peace for the people of Egypt, You left us the peace of God, unlike the peace of the world, and as long as your Spirit is living in is, Your people are always in peace”.
Then our church elder proclaimed to the crowd that over 2,000 years ago, a 30-year old man stood up against corruption. He stood for peace and was hated and killed for it. This Man is Jesus Christ, Issa Son of Mary, and in His Spirit we are standing now, calling for peace. “The spirit of peace will overcome hate, the spirit of truth will overcome the spirit of corruption”, he cried, and the people all cheered. “Egypt will be a land where there is freedom of worship, freedom and democracy for people of different faiths, Muslims Christians, or otherwise” he declared. “This is what we are praying for, a secular government, one people, a new society.
The Bible says ‘Perfect love drives away fear’ and this is what we have seen in the past 2 weeks: people loved their country, loved each other, and loved God, and they went out with no fear”. They then ended with a song that proclaimed Christ on our land, “This land belongs to the Son of God, you are the One who reigns in it, You are the Lord, You are God, lifted up in it…we will see Your promises, by your precious blood we will see miracles, Your cross protects us”
We were amazed at the people’s response, those hundreds of thousands of Muslims, as the elder ended with prayers, the people repeated after him or said “Amen”. They were prayers like “God teach us not to be afraid of fear, life is freedom, to
choose, and to live in peace, to love each other, and love You…Lord protect Egypt, Lord teach us to love each other, and love this country, bless Egypt Oh Lord”.
After it was over, one of the most famous Egyptian writers who had always written against Christians for years came to the elder, apologizing for all he had written, and promised to write this new side he had never seen of Christians coming in
the Name of Jesus speaking for love, peace, and justice.
Another Muslim public figure, noticing the absence of many Christians in the first few days of the protests, knew that we were fasting and praying for three days for the country, instead of going out in violence, and this is what he said on public TV… a wonderful testimony for Christ, given by a Muslim.
Since then, a prominent women asked permission for a few people from our church to
bring a few musical instruments, and every now and then, they gave them the platform to lead the people in prayer and worship. Once, this leader had them repeat the Lord’s Prayer after him!
How wonderful it is to hear the Name of Christ, and the Word of God declared in our land in freedom, after having been illegal to declare it in public.
For years, Christians have been trapped in fear, but also for years they have been praying for God’s boldness in sharing the Truth. And at last we are seeing it happen, and seeing more connection, new relationships built, and stronger unity between Christians and Muslims. We pray that God would turn all that is happening for His glory, for Christ to be glorified above all, and the gospel declared in Egypt, in the Middle East, and in all the nations!
Prayer Requests:
For wisdom and justice from the government and authorities in handling the change of government.
For the unknown future: danger of Islamic rule after change of governments and that the military of Egypt will not stand with pro-Muslim Brotherhood factions, and a smooth transition to a secular government.
That those who consider themselves Christians will express their deep frustration in a Christ-like honoring way, and not be tempted to “run” in troubled times.
That the Holy Spirit would bring spiritual revival to the Middle East through the prayers and witness of the Christians in these trouble times; and for many to know the real Savior as He reveals Himself and draws them to Him from all ends of the earth.
For protection of Christians across the Middle East
For the economy that has gone down and people who have lost their jobs in the last three weeks to recover quickly, and for the alleviation of poverty and unemployment.
For the church to be strengthened and for our ministry to grow and thrive in troubled times.
“In that day there will be an altar to the LORD in the heart of Egypt, and a monument to the LORD at its border. It will be a sign and witness to the LORD Almighty in the land of Egypt. When they cry out to the LORD because of their oppressors, He will send them a Savior and Defender, and He will rescue them. So the LORD will make Himself known to the Egyptians, and in that day they will acknowledge the LORD…Blessed be Egypt My people”. Isaiah 19:19-21, 25
Thursday, February 17, 2011
SOUTH SUDAN--Announcing the Birth of a Nation
Sudan Support Network (www.givengain.com) reports:
It's final and it's true. The amazing referendum results announced this Sunday in Khartoum. There is a host of reasons to praise God related to the referendum. To just think of some of these:
• The high percentage vote of the registered voters.
• The incredibly high percentage vote in favor of secession.
• The ABSOLUTE zero number of legal complaints about the referendum process and results.
• The degree of acceptance that the referendum was in essence free and fair by the Khartoum government and the high level of support of that from the people in North Sudan.
• The almost lack of news coming out of Sudan, indicating the global acceptance of developments in Sudan.
• The high level of commitment by the people of Southern Sudan to move towards declaring independence on 9 July 2011.
• The mature leadership of the Southern Sudanese Government in seeing the referendum through from start to finish.
• The apparent high levels of commitment from both the Governments of North and South Sudan to cooperate on transition to the new dispensation.
• The high level to which this is and was a bloodless transition. This was THE key prayer focus in the build-up to the referendum. It reminds a lot of the miraculous peaceful transition to a democratic state in South Africa in 1994.
• The extent to which God has answered prayers for the referendum.
The way has been opened for the people of Southern Sudan to declare their independence in July this year.
Besides joining in with all the praises listed above, please pray:
1. For the new South Sudan President Salva Kiir that God would give him servant's heart, great wisdom and discernment, and success in building up South Sudan.
2. That post-referendum arrangements regarding the sharing of oil revenues, demarcation of borders, and the status of the border region of Abyei will be resolved fairly and amicably.
3. That both North and South Sudan will have a good relationship and never to become enemies.
4. For Christians to know the freedom of worshiping God without fear for their lives.
It's final and it's true. The amazing referendum results announced this Sunday in Khartoum. There is a host of reasons to praise God related to the referendum. To just think of some of these:
• The high percentage vote of the registered voters.
• The incredibly high percentage vote in favor of secession.
• The ABSOLUTE zero number of legal complaints about the referendum process and results.
• The degree of acceptance that the referendum was in essence free and fair by the Khartoum government and the high level of support of that from the people in North Sudan.
• The almost lack of news coming out of Sudan, indicating the global acceptance of developments in Sudan.
• The high level of commitment by the people of Southern Sudan to move towards declaring independence on 9 July 2011.
• The mature leadership of the Southern Sudanese Government in seeing the referendum through from start to finish.
• The apparent high levels of commitment from both the Governments of North and South Sudan to cooperate on transition to the new dispensation.
• The high level to which this is and was a bloodless transition. This was THE key prayer focus in the build-up to the referendum. It reminds a lot of the miraculous peaceful transition to a democratic state in South Africa in 1994.
• The extent to which God has answered prayers for the referendum.
The way has been opened for the people of Southern Sudan to declare their independence in July this year.
Besides joining in with all the praises listed above, please pray:
1. For the new South Sudan President Salva Kiir that God would give him servant's heart, great wisdom and discernment, and success in building up South Sudan.
2. That post-referendum arrangements regarding the sharing of oil revenues, demarcation of borders, and the status of the border region of Abyei will be resolved fairly and amicably.
3. That both North and South Sudan will have a good relationship and never to become enemies.
4. For Christians to know the freedom of worshiping God without fear for their lives.
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions
“I have quitted all forms of devotion and set prayers but those to which my state obliges me. And i make it my business only to persevere in His holy presence, wherein i keep myself by a simple attention, and a general fond regard to God... which often causes me joys and raptures inwardly, and sometimes also outwardly, so great, that i am forced to use means to moderate them, and prevent their appearance to others. ... At other times, when i apply myself to prayer, i feel all my spirit and all my soul lift itself up without any care or effort of mine, and it continues as it were suspended and firmly fixed in GOD, as in its centre and place of rest.”
Brother Lawrence, The Practice of the Presence of God: The Best Rule of a Holy Life (New York: Flemming H. Revell Co., 1895) 25-26
Brother Lawrence, The Practice of the Presence of God: The Best Rule of a Holy Life (New York: Flemming H. Revell Co., 1895) 25-26
Middle East protests: Country by country
Middle East protests: Country by country
Morocco
Morocco’s main opposition group has warned the “autocracy” will be swept away unless there are deep economic reforms.
Morocco has been facing severe economic problems. It has announced an increase in state subsidies to try to counter commodity price rises.
Earlier this year, Morocco’s reputation was damaged after Wikileaks revealed allegations corruption involving the royal family and the people close to King Mohammed VI.
The king says the fight against poverty is a priority, earning him the name “guardian of the poor”. Economic liberalisation has attracted foreign investment and officials point to better basic services in shanty towns and rural areas.
But some non-government groups say little has changed, with poverty still widespread and unemployment remaining high. Morocco is dogged by strikes by both private and public.
Morocco, like Egypt and Algeria, does allow limited freedom of expression and has so far been able to contain protests. Like Jordan it is a monarchy with strong support among sections of the public.
Algeria
Sporadic protests have been continuing since early January, with demonstrators demanding the resignation of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika.
Protest groups united in their opposition to the government include small trade unions and minor political parties. The trigger for the unrest appears to be mainly economic - in particular sharp increases in the price of food.
Earlier this month President Bouteflika promised to lift the country’s state of emergency - in place in since 1992 - in the “near future”, but hasn’t done so yet.
Algeria’s government has considerable wealth from its oil and gas exports and is trying to tackle social and economic complaints with a huge public spending programme
Tunisia
Protests have continued in Tunisia - despite President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali’s decision to step down in January. He fled the country following weeks of anti-government demonstrations and clashes between protesters and police.
The trigger was a desperate act by a young unemployed man on 17 December. Mohamed Bouazizi set fire to himself when officials in his town prevented him from selling vegetables on the streets of Sidi Bouzid without permission.
This set off protests which then spread elsewhere. The violent response of the authorities - with the police opening fire on demonstrators - appears to have exacerbated anger and ignited further protests which ultimately led to the president’s downfall.
Parliamentary Speaker Foued Mebazaa has been sworn in as interim president and has asked Prime Minister Mohammed Ghannouchi, head of the government since 1999, to form a national unity government. The prime minister has also pledged to step down after elections in about six months’ time.
Libya
Hundreds of people are reported to have taken to the streets of the Libyan city of Benghazi - ahead of a day of demonstrations.
Protests of any kind are prohibited in Libya, but the latest unrest was triggered by the arrest of a lawyer who is an outspoken critic of the government.
There have been calls on the internet for a day of protests on 17 February. Latest reports from Benghazi say it is now calm.
Colonel Gaddafi is is the longest serving ruler in Africa and the Middle East, and also one of the most autocratic.
Egypt
President Hosni Mubarak announced he was stepping down on 11 February after 18 days of protests. Aged 82, he had been in power since 1981.
Egypt had long been known as a centre of stability in a volatile region, but that masked problems which erupted in popular demonstrations against the 30-year rule of President Mubarak on 25 January.
The main drivers of the unrest were poverty, rising prices, social exclusion, anger over corruption and personal enrichment among the political elite, and a demographic bulge of young people unable to find work.
With President Mubarak gone, Egypt’s Armed Forces Supreme Council will run the country for the next six months, or until elections are held.
The Islamist and conservative Muslim Brotherhood would be expected to do well in any free and fair elections, but fears of a lurch towards Islamist rule is the main worry for Western powers and Israel.
Jordan
Thousands of Jordanians have taken to the streets over the past five weeks, demanding better employment prospects and cuts in foods and fuel costs.
In response, King Abdullah II sacked Prime Minister Samir Rifai over the slow pace of reform and appointed Marouf al-Bakhit, a former army general and ambassador to Israel.
A new 26-member cabinet was sworn in on 10 February.
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a small country with few natural resources, but it has played a pivotal role in the struggle for power in the Middle East.
The death of King Hussein, who ruled for 46 years, left Jordan still struggling for economic and social survival, as well as regional peace.
His son, Abdullah, who succeeded him to the throne, faces the task of maintaining stability while accommodating calls for reform.
A blueprint for long-term political, economic and social change - known as the National Agenda - has yet to be implemented.
Syria
Calls for a “day of rage” to coincide with the fall of Egypt’s President Hosnic Mubarak failed to materialize into a demonstration and so far the country has remained calm.
President Bashar al-Assad has promised to push through political reforms after inheriting power from his father, Hafez, in 2000, after three decades of authoritarian rule.
The country remains under emergency law, in place since 1963. Following the death of Hafez al-Assad, Syria underwent a degree of relaxation. Hundreds of political prisoners were released. But the granting of real political freedoms and a shake-up of the state-dominated economy have not materialzsed.
Saudi Arabia
One of the most devout and insular countries in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia has emerged from being an underdeveloped desert kingdom to become one of the wealthiest nations in the region thanks to vast oil resources.
But its rulers face the delicate task of responding to pressure for reform while combating a growing problem of extremist violence. It has always been in the ruling al Saud family’s interests to preserve stability in the region and to clamp down on extremist elements. Opposition movements are banned within the country.
Regionally, the country is important with King Abdullah Bin-Abd-al-Aziz Al Saud regarded in the Arab world as a supporter of wider Arab interests.
It was to Saudi Arabia that Tunisia’s ousted leader, Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali, fled in January.
Yemen
Following days of protests, Yemen’s President Ali Abdullah Saleh announced on 2 February that he would not seek another term in office, after three decades in power.
He also told parliament that he would not hand over power to his son, saying: “No extension, no inheritance, no resetting the clock.”
But protests continue, with people taking to the streets in the cities of Sanaa, Aden and Taiz. Anti-government protesters demanding political reform have clashed with pro-government loyalists and police have been sent in to break up the demonstrations.
Yemen is the Arab world’s most impoverished nation, where nearly half of the population lives on less than $2 a day.
Bahrain
Shia protesters demand change Protesters are gathering the Bahraini capital Manama after two days of clashes with police in which two people died.
Bahrain is vulnerable to unrest because of discontent among its majority Shia population against the ruling Sunni dynasty. The Al-Khalifas have ruled the country since the 18th century.
Protesters complain of economic hardship, lack of political freedom and discrimination in jobs in favor of Sunnis.
Since coming to power in 1999, King Hamad bin Issa Al Khalifa has pushed economic and political reforms to improve relations with the Shia community.
The country, which is a regional banking, trading and Islamic finance hub, became a constitutional monarchy in 2002.
Iran
The government in Tehran has called for a rally on Friday (18 February) to express hatred for the opposition movement.
It follows demonstrations organized by the regime’s two main opposition leaders earlier in the week in support of the unrest in neighboring countries. The protest quickly turned into anti-government unrest which left two people dead and others injured.
Iran’s complex and unusual political system combines elements of a modern Islamic theocracy with democracy.
A network of unelected institutions, controlled by the highly powerful conservative Supreme Leader, is countered by a president and parliament elected by the people.
President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, elected in 2005, is a hard-liner who has vowed to put down any protests against the regime. He has accused demonstrators of wanting to “tarnish the Iranian nation’s brilliance”.
Morocco
Morocco’s main opposition group has warned the “autocracy” will be swept away unless there are deep economic reforms.
Morocco has been facing severe economic problems. It has announced an increase in state subsidies to try to counter commodity price rises.
Earlier this year, Morocco’s reputation was damaged after Wikileaks revealed allegations corruption involving the royal family and the people close to King Mohammed VI.
The king says the fight against poverty is a priority, earning him the name “guardian of the poor”. Economic liberalisation has attracted foreign investment and officials point to better basic services in shanty towns and rural areas.
But some non-government groups say little has changed, with poverty still widespread and unemployment remaining high. Morocco is dogged by strikes by both private and public.
Morocco, like Egypt and Algeria, does allow limited freedom of expression and has so far been able to contain protests. Like Jordan it is a monarchy with strong support among sections of the public.
Algeria
Sporadic protests have been continuing since early January, with demonstrators demanding the resignation of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika.
Protest groups united in their opposition to the government include small trade unions and minor political parties. The trigger for the unrest appears to be mainly economic - in particular sharp increases in the price of food.
Earlier this month President Bouteflika promised to lift the country’s state of emergency - in place in since 1992 - in the “near future”, but hasn’t done so yet.
Algeria’s government has considerable wealth from its oil and gas exports and is trying to tackle social and economic complaints with a huge public spending programme
Tunisia
Protests have continued in Tunisia - despite President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali’s decision to step down in January. He fled the country following weeks of anti-government demonstrations and clashes between protesters and police.
The trigger was a desperate act by a young unemployed man on 17 December. Mohamed Bouazizi set fire to himself when officials in his town prevented him from selling vegetables on the streets of Sidi Bouzid without permission.
This set off protests which then spread elsewhere. The violent response of the authorities - with the police opening fire on demonstrators - appears to have exacerbated anger and ignited further protests which ultimately led to the president’s downfall.
Parliamentary Speaker Foued Mebazaa has been sworn in as interim president and has asked Prime Minister Mohammed Ghannouchi, head of the government since 1999, to form a national unity government. The prime minister has also pledged to step down after elections in about six months’ time.
Libya
Hundreds of people are reported to have taken to the streets of the Libyan city of Benghazi - ahead of a day of demonstrations.
Protests of any kind are prohibited in Libya, but the latest unrest was triggered by the arrest of a lawyer who is an outspoken critic of the government.
There have been calls on the internet for a day of protests on 17 February. Latest reports from Benghazi say it is now calm.
Colonel Gaddafi is is the longest serving ruler in Africa and the Middle East, and also one of the most autocratic.
Egypt
President Hosni Mubarak announced he was stepping down on 11 February after 18 days of protests. Aged 82, he had been in power since 1981.
Egypt had long been known as a centre of stability in a volatile region, but that masked problems which erupted in popular demonstrations against the 30-year rule of President Mubarak on 25 January.
The main drivers of the unrest were poverty, rising prices, social exclusion, anger over corruption and personal enrichment among the political elite, and a demographic bulge of young people unable to find work.
With President Mubarak gone, Egypt’s Armed Forces Supreme Council will run the country for the next six months, or until elections are held.
The Islamist and conservative Muslim Brotherhood would be expected to do well in any free and fair elections, but fears of a lurch towards Islamist rule is the main worry for Western powers and Israel.
Jordan
Thousands of Jordanians have taken to the streets over the past five weeks, demanding better employment prospects and cuts in foods and fuel costs.
In response, King Abdullah II sacked Prime Minister Samir Rifai over the slow pace of reform and appointed Marouf al-Bakhit, a former army general and ambassador to Israel.
A new 26-member cabinet was sworn in on 10 February.
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a small country with few natural resources, but it has played a pivotal role in the struggle for power in the Middle East.
The death of King Hussein, who ruled for 46 years, left Jordan still struggling for economic and social survival, as well as regional peace.
His son, Abdullah, who succeeded him to the throne, faces the task of maintaining stability while accommodating calls for reform.
A blueprint for long-term political, economic and social change - known as the National Agenda - has yet to be implemented.
Syria
Calls for a “day of rage” to coincide with the fall of Egypt’s President Hosnic Mubarak failed to materialize into a demonstration and so far the country has remained calm.
President Bashar al-Assad has promised to push through political reforms after inheriting power from his father, Hafez, in 2000, after three decades of authoritarian rule.
The country remains under emergency law, in place since 1963. Following the death of Hafez al-Assad, Syria underwent a degree of relaxation. Hundreds of political prisoners were released. But the granting of real political freedoms and a shake-up of the state-dominated economy have not materialzsed.
Saudi Arabia
One of the most devout and insular countries in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia has emerged from being an underdeveloped desert kingdom to become one of the wealthiest nations in the region thanks to vast oil resources.
But its rulers face the delicate task of responding to pressure for reform while combating a growing problem of extremist violence. It has always been in the ruling al Saud family’s interests to preserve stability in the region and to clamp down on extremist elements. Opposition movements are banned within the country.
Regionally, the country is important with King Abdullah Bin-Abd-al-Aziz Al Saud regarded in the Arab world as a supporter of wider Arab interests.
It was to Saudi Arabia that Tunisia’s ousted leader, Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali, fled in January.
Yemen
Following days of protests, Yemen’s President Ali Abdullah Saleh announced on 2 February that he would not seek another term in office, after three decades in power.
He also told parliament that he would not hand over power to his son, saying: “No extension, no inheritance, no resetting the clock.”
But protests continue, with people taking to the streets in the cities of Sanaa, Aden and Taiz. Anti-government protesters demanding political reform have clashed with pro-government loyalists and police have been sent in to break up the demonstrations.
Yemen is the Arab world’s most impoverished nation, where nearly half of the population lives on less than $2 a day.
Bahrain
Shia protesters demand change Protesters are gathering the Bahraini capital Manama after two days of clashes with police in which two people died.
Bahrain is vulnerable to unrest because of discontent among its majority Shia population against the ruling Sunni dynasty. The Al-Khalifas have ruled the country since the 18th century.
Protesters complain of economic hardship, lack of political freedom and discrimination in jobs in favor of Sunnis.
Since coming to power in 1999, King Hamad bin Issa Al Khalifa has pushed economic and political reforms to improve relations with the Shia community.
The country, which is a regional banking, trading and Islamic finance hub, became a constitutional monarchy in 2002.
Iran
The government in Tehran has called for a rally on Friday (18 February) to express hatred for the opposition movement.
It follows demonstrations organized by the regime’s two main opposition leaders earlier in the week in support of the unrest in neighboring countries. The protest quickly turned into anti-government unrest which left two people dead and others injured.
Iran’s complex and unusual political system combines elements of a modern Islamic theocracy with democracy.
A network of unelected institutions, controlled by the highly powerful conservative Supreme Leader, is countered by a president and parliament elected by the people.
President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, elected in 2005, is a hard-liner who has vowed to put down any protests against the regime. He has accused demonstrators of wanting to “tarnish the Iranian nation’s brilliance”.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Campaign To Save Afghan Convert Facing Death
CAMPAIGN TO SAVE AFGHAN CONVERT FACING DEATH
An aid agency that supports persecuted Christians is calling on western governments to help a Christian sentenced to death in Afghanistan. Barnabas Fund has launched a petition to pressurize Afghan President Hamid Karzai to release Said Musa. Red Cross worker Said has been in prison for 8 months after converting to Christianity, and faces execution if he does not return to Islam. Said has had no trial and death threats have made lawyers frightened to defend him. The one-legged man claims he has been tortured and sexually abused in prison. Barnabas Fund says Karzai should uphold the Afghan constitution which acknowledges human rights. Instead, his government's policy towards converts 'appears no different from that of the Taliban'. [CHRISTIAN TODAY, 7 Feb.; The Sunday Times, 6 Feb.]
An aid agency that supports persecuted Christians is calling on western governments to help a Christian sentenced to death in Afghanistan. Barnabas Fund has launched a petition to pressurize Afghan President Hamid Karzai to release Said Musa. Red Cross worker Said has been in prison for 8 months after converting to Christianity, and faces execution if he does not return to Islam. Said has had no trial and death threats have made lawyers frightened to defend him. The one-legged man claims he has been tortured and sexually abused in prison. Barnabas Fund says Karzai should uphold the Afghan constitution which acknowledges human rights. Instead, his government's policy towards converts 'appears no different from that of the Taliban'. [CHRISTIAN TODAY, 7 Feb.; The Sunday Times, 6 Feb.]
Libya: Protests ‘rock city of Benghazi’
There are reports of protests by hundreds of people in the Libyan city of Benghazi. Eyewitnesses told the BBC that the unrest had been triggered by the arrest of a lawyer who is an outspoken critic of the government. The lawyer was later said to have been released but the protests continued.
Pro-democracy protests have swept through several Arab countries in recent weeks, forcing the leaders of Tunisia and Egypt from power. A call has been put out on the internet for protests across Libya on Thursday.
‘Police injured’
There is no independent confirmation of the overnight protests in Benghazi, but eyewitnesses say that at one stage some 2,000 people were involved. They say stones were thrown at police who are said to have responded with water cannon, tear gas and rubber bullets.
Later, state television showed pictures of several hundred people in Benghazi voicing their support for the government. The government has so far not commented on events in the city. Fourteen people were injured, including 10 police officers, Reuters quoted a report in the online edition of Libya’s privately-owned Quryna as saying.
One witness, who did not want to be named, later told the BBC: “A couple of people in the crowd started chanting anti-government slogans and the crowd took that on.
“But then there were clashes with pro-government supporters and then after a bit the pro-government supporters were dispersed and then the security services arrived and they dispersed the crowds with hot-water cannons.”
The protests began after the arrest of Fathi Terbil, who represents relatives of the alleged massacre of prisoners by security forces in Tripoli’s Abu Slim jail in 1996, reports say. Sources say he was held after telling relatives of current inmates that the prison was on fire and urging them to protest. Mr Terbil was later said to have been freed.
The Middle East has seen a wave of protests fueled by discontent over unemployment, rising living costs, corruption and autocratic leaderships. They began with the overthrow of Tunisia’s leader, Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali, in January. In recent days there have also been anti-government demonstrations in Yemen, Bahrain, and Iran.
Pro-democracy protests have swept through several Arab countries in recent weeks, forcing the leaders of Tunisia and Egypt from power. A call has been put out on the internet for protests across Libya on Thursday.
‘Police injured’
There is no independent confirmation of the overnight protests in Benghazi, but eyewitnesses say that at one stage some 2,000 people were involved. They say stones were thrown at police who are said to have responded with water cannon, tear gas and rubber bullets.
Later, state television showed pictures of several hundred people in Benghazi voicing their support for the government. The government has so far not commented on events in the city. Fourteen people were injured, including 10 police officers, Reuters quoted a report in the online edition of Libya’s privately-owned Quryna as saying.
One witness, who did not want to be named, later told the BBC: “A couple of people in the crowd started chanting anti-government slogans and the crowd took that on.
“But then there were clashes with pro-government supporters and then after a bit the pro-government supporters were dispersed and then the security services arrived and they dispersed the crowds with hot-water cannons.”
The protests began after the arrest of Fathi Terbil, who represents relatives of the alleged massacre of prisoners by security forces in Tripoli’s Abu Slim jail in 1996, reports say. Sources say he was held after telling relatives of current inmates that the prison was on fire and urging them to protest. Mr Terbil was later said to have been freed.
The Middle East has seen a wave of protests fueled by discontent over unemployment, rising living costs, corruption and autocratic leaderships. They began with the overthrow of Tunisia’s leader, Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali, in January. In recent days there have also been anti-government demonstrations in Yemen, Bahrain, and Iran.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
A Message from Brian Mills, IPC Senior Advisor
Everything is being shaken!
Two years ago God told me this. "Everything that can be shaken will be shaken." Little did I know at the time how this would be fulfilled! At first it was intensely personal--my whole world was turned upside down and has been ever since within my own nuclear family. Many other Christian leaders have also faced their own severe trials - in emotional, spiritual, physical , family, or ministry terms.
Now today we are seeing how things are being shaken globally. The financial world has been shaken by the Western Banking crisis and the ongoing repercussions. Middle Eastern & North African nations have been reeling from the political crisis enveloping it, leading to unprecedented riots. Climate change has caused some catastrophic disasters in Brazil, Pakistan, Australia, and many other nations. Physical shakings of the earth's crust has also caused devastating earthquakes in Pakistan, China, Haiti, Indonesia and elsewhere.
These shakings will continue - and there is bound to be more to come. Some Currencies will collapse. More tempests and tornadoes will wreak havoc. That which seems to be stable will be shaken. The question is "Where are the watchmen?" Are they keeping watch over their nation and the influences affecting their nation? This is a time for the watchmen in prayer to find each other within each nation and to find a place of unity in prayer, despite differences of understanding and background. As some watchmen in the nations being shaken are discovering, unity will be challenged and motives will be tested. Only prayer that is more concerned for God's glory than our comfort will break through. This is a rallying call to the watchmen of the world. Watch and pray!
Brian Mills
International Prayer Council
Two years ago God told me this. "Everything that can be shaken will be shaken." Little did I know at the time how this would be fulfilled! At first it was intensely personal--my whole world was turned upside down and has been ever since within my own nuclear family. Many other Christian leaders have also faced their own severe trials - in emotional, spiritual, physical , family, or ministry terms.
Now today we are seeing how things are being shaken globally. The financial world has been shaken by the Western Banking crisis and the ongoing repercussions. Middle Eastern & North African nations have been reeling from the political crisis enveloping it, leading to unprecedented riots. Climate change has caused some catastrophic disasters in Brazil, Pakistan, Australia, and many other nations. Physical shakings of the earth's crust has also caused devastating earthquakes in Pakistan, China, Haiti, Indonesia and elsewhere.
These shakings will continue - and there is bound to be more to come. Some Currencies will collapse. More tempests and tornadoes will wreak havoc. That which seems to be stable will be shaken. The question is "Where are the watchmen?" Are they keeping watch over their nation and the influences affecting their nation? This is a time for the watchmen in prayer to find each other within each nation and to find a place of unity in prayer, despite differences of understanding and background. As some watchmen in the nations being shaken are discovering, unity will be challenged and motives will be tested. Only prayer that is more concerned for God's glory than our comfort will break through. This is a rallying call to the watchmen of the world. Watch and pray!
Brian Mills
International Prayer Council
Praying for Albania
These are difficult days for Albania. We made it to the international news again and most of us here in Albania are in shock and dismay that this happened... We are sad because what happened on Friday and what follows has the potential to jeopardize all the steps forward in the past decade.
The political situation is unreasonable and out of any logical sense. But this is a spiritual rather than a political conflict. The devil does not want this country to be stable and developed and unfortunately we as a people have turned our backs to God for centuries and are still playing the devil's game bringing the worst upon ourselves.
Here is my attempt to summarize what has been happening.The socialist lost the general elections in June 2009 but never admitted this even though the elections were certified by all the international organisms. Were the elections very good or excellent? Of course, they;re not. But they were acceptable and much better than earlier ones. The socialists pursued undemocratic ways to put pressure by not participating in the parliament, obstructing any initiative and making the work of government difficult. We are now 18 months after the elections and the opposition escalated its fight against the government with the Friday protest when for 4 hours groups of angry people were hitting the police with stones and tried to enter in the prime minister offices. Three people are killed many protesters and police are injured; It is sad to sit and watch in TV angry and unreasonable people continuously hitting the police with stones and trying to forcefully enter in an important government institution while burning cars and trees around the building. It makes you feel unsafe and sad and ashamed to be an Albanian (this is what you;d hear from most of the people who watched with dismay on TV). It reminds me early 90s and 97 and brings in a feeling of hopelessness because it is now 2011 ans we thought this was the past left behind.
What happened on Friday is a no return toward the destruction of Albania unless God intervenes and sends His Spirit of peace and forgiveness. If the government resigns and the socialists get to power the message is if you lose the elections you can contest them over and over again even with violent protest until you get into power. The democrats will follow in the same footsteps and the cycle will be repeated no constructive contribution in the parliament no approval of vital laws;.no joint efforts to develop Albania and make it part of EU but only blaming and badmouthing each other. If the government does not resign, the socialists will continue with protests, the obstructive and negative approach and more aggression. At this point I am not sure what the solution is and I am sad for Albania and its people who get caught up in yet another self-destructive situation.
Why do we have this recurring problem? This is the consequence of centuries of Isl*m and decades of communism for I the LORD your God am a jealous God punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me. Exodus 20:5
Why don't you have this instability in your countries in USA and Europe (yet)?.. but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments..Exodus 20:6. Praise God for your forefathers who loved God and kept His commandments, but watch out and pray that your generation does not go away from His love and commandments.
Can Albania ever make it to stability and development with all the blessings God has provided to it?
At this point only God can make a difference. The devil is roaring to devour Albania. We need prayers to save Albania and allow it to fulfill the role God created it for. Please join in prayer for Albania specifically for Sali Berisha the Prime Minister and Edi Rama the head of the socialists and the mayor of Tirana and all their advisors and close friends. Pray that the Spirit of God will take control over their minds and hearts and lead them to the right decisions that would benefit Albania and its people. The following 3 days are vital as the socialists plan a protest on Fri in honor of the 3 victims and the democrats plan a gathering on Saturday in support of peace; meantime the international ambassadors here try to negotiate and make the two parties reason together for the best of the country.
“I urge then first of all that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone-for kings and all those in authority that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” 1 Tim 2 :1-2
Pray also for the people of Albania to understand that they need to turn their face toward God and ask Him to bring righteousness, forgiveness and healing through Jesus in this wonderfully made land with so many unhealed wounds and so much potential for His Kingdom in this region and beyond. Pray also for the body of Christ in Albania to stand in prayer fighting for Albania in the spiritual realms.
The political situation is unreasonable and out of any logical sense. But this is a spiritual rather than a political conflict. The devil does not want this country to be stable and developed and unfortunately we as a people have turned our backs to God for centuries and are still playing the devil's game bringing the worst upon ourselves.
Here is my attempt to summarize what has been happening.The socialist lost the general elections in June 2009 but never admitted this even though the elections were certified by all the international organisms. Were the elections very good or excellent? Of course, they;re not. But they were acceptable and much better than earlier ones. The socialists pursued undemocratic ways to put pressure by not participating in the parliament, obstructing any initiative and making the work of government difficult. We are now 18 months after the elections and the opposition escalated its fight against the government with the Friday protest when for 4 hours groups of angry people were hitting the police with stones and tried to enter in the prime minister offices. Three people are killed many protesters and police are injured; It is sad to sit and watch in TV angry and unreasonable people continuously hitting the police with stones and trying to forcefully enter in an important government institution while burning cars and trees around the building. It makes you feel unsafe and sad and ashamed to be an Albanian (this is what you;d hear from most of the people who watched with dismay on TV). It reminds me early 90s and 97 and brings in a feeling of hopelessness because it is now 2011 ans we thought this was the past left behind.
What happened on Friday is a no return toward the destruction of Albania unless God intervenes and sends His Spirit of peace and forgiveness. If the government resigns and the socialists get to power the message is if you lose the elections you can contest them over and over again even with violent protest until you get into power. The democrats will follow in the same footsteps and the cycle will be repeated no constructive contribution in the parliament no approval of vital laws;.no joint efforts to develop Albania and make it part of EU but only blaming and badmouthing each other. If the government does not resign, the socialists will continue with protests, the obstructive and negative approach and more aggression. At this point I am not sure what the solution is and I am sad for Albania and its people who get caught up in yet another self-destructive situation.
Why do we have this recurring problem? This is the consequence of centuries of Isl*m and decades of communism for I the LORD your God am a jealous God punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me. Exodus 20:5
Why don't you have this instability in your countries in USA and Europe (yet)?.. but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments..Exodus 20:6. Praise God for your forefathers who loved God and kept His commandments, but watch out and pray that your generation does not go away from His love and commandments.
Can Albania ever make it to stability and development with all the blessings God has provided to it?
At this point only God can make a difference. The devil is roaring to devour Albania. We need prayers to save Albania and allow it to fulfill the role God created it for. Please join in prayer for Albania specifically for Sali Berisha the Prime Minister and Edi Rama the head of the socialists and the mayor of Tirana and all their advisors and close friends. Pray that the Spirit of God will take control over their minds and hearts and lead them to the right decisions that would benefit Albania and its people. The following 3 days are vital as the socialists plan a protest on Fri in honor of the 3 victims and the democrats plan a gathering on Saturday in support of peace; meantime the international ambassadors here try to negotiate and make the two parties reason together for the best of the country.
“I urge then first of all that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone-for kings and all those in authority that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” 1 Tim 2 :1-2
Pray also for the people of Albania to understand that they need to turn their face toward God and ask Him to bring righteousness, forgiveness and healing through Jesus in this wonderfully made land with so many unhealed wounds and so much potential for His Kingdom in this region and beyond. Pray also for the body of Christ in Albania to stand in prayer fighting for Albania in the spiritual realms.
Prayer for the Arab World
PRAYER GUIDELINES: For prayer guidelines, in Egypt, in Tunisia
and the other countries, as well. When you read "Egypt", include other
countries as appropriate. When you read "church," think of the local
fellowships, expatriate fellowships.
1. A peaceful transition of power. Wisdom and revelation for the leaders and to the way they address the people of Egypt.
2. A quick end to this protest and the economic crisis accumulating.
3. That the evil unleashed will hit a wall, and the plans of the enemy to start a civil confrontation will not succeed.
4. Peace and security to return to the streets of Egypt
5. A restraining of the Muslim Brotherhood and other political parties who have evil hidden agendas.
6. For the Church to have a prophetic voice at this critical time. For Wisdom and revelation from the father to speak life and revealed truth to the Church and the Nation.
7. The Church to move prophetically and know how to handle this difficult time with confidence and boldness.
8. That Egyptians will not be taken lightly or mistreated any longer.
9. That President Mubarak will leave with dignity and honor, and none of His family will be harmed.
and the other countries, as well. When you read "Egypt", include other
countries as appropriate. When you read "church," think of the local
fellowships, expatriate fellowships.
1. A peaceful transition of power. Wisdom and revelation for the leaders and to the way they address the people of Egypt.
2. A quick end to this protest and the economic crisis accumulating.
3. That the evil unleashed will hit a wall, and the plans of the enemy to start a civil confrontation will not succeed.
4. Peace and security to return to the streets of Egypt
5. A restraining of the Muslim Brotherhood and other political parties who have evil hidden agendas.
6. For the Church to have a prophetic voice at this critical time. For Wisdom and revelation from the father to speak life and revealed truth to the Church and the Nation.
7. The Church to move prophetically and know how to handle this difficult time with confidence and boldness.
8. That Egyptians will not be taken lightly or mistreated any longer.
9. That President Mubarak will leave with dignity and honor, and none of His family will be harmed.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Haiti, one year after the earthquake
Media coverage since the 2010 earthquake has focused on government inaction, the slow pace of recovery, and the seeming inability of Haiti to recover. “One year after the earthquake, the situation in Haiti remains extremely grave. Overall reconstruction of the country has been much slower than anyone would have liked,” said Aaron Tate, Church World Service’s Haiti earthquake response coordinator. “Haitians are frustrated, and I’m frustrated.” Others in Haiti also acknowledge problems in the last year.
"It’s easy to blame the government, the humanitarian organizations or even the Haitian people for the problems of the last year.” Tate said. "It is more useful however to work on “things that can multiply and build a new kind of Haiti. In the communities, we see people trying to move on with their lives.” Tate added that while criticism of rebuilding efforts is understandable, thousands of Haitians are alive today because of the initial and ongoing response of aid workers and the agencies they work for. Many people would have died without such assistance.
"It’s easy to blame the government, the humanitarian organizations or even the Haitian people for the problems of the last year.” Tate said. "It is more useful however to work on “things that can multiply and build a new kind of Haiti. In the communities, we see people trying to move on with their lives.” Tate added that while criticism of rebuilding efforts is understandable, thousands of Haitians are alive today because of the initial and ongoing response of aid workers and the agencies they work for. Many people would have died without such assistance.
Haitians are living lives of quiet dignity, working together toward the common good. Co-ops assist in pooling resources, raise and harvest crops, and provide agricultural credit to members. “It’s the co-op that has helped us since we’ve returned from Port-au-Prince,” said Ophliase Joseph, 55, the mother of seven children whose home was destroyed in the earthquake. While Joseph said she misses the family home in the Haitian capital, life in the co-op, in Mayombe, has made her realize that she and the family need to put life in Port-au-Prince behind them she said.
The food co-ops are also meeting the challenge of providing food for their members and their families. “It means life to us,” said Elvius St. Fulis a member of the “Hand in Hand” co-op. Efforts continue to expand the 13 food cooperatives, which have more than 3,000 members. There is ongoing support for vulnerable Haitian children in Port-au-Prince, including restavek children (domestic servants), former gang members and teenage mothers and there is continued support for 1,200 persons with disabilities and their families in metropolitan Port-au-Prince.
Source: Church World Service
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Tunisia
God said to his people: "Look to the nations (Tunisia), watch and be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something in your day that you would not believe even if you were told." Habakkuk 1:5
This now holds very true, and we stand utterly amazed. There is still so much to pray about, but those living in the country have felt a sense of greater peace these last few days and things are returning to normal. This is such a blessing. The violence still can arise again, but the Tunisian people have done something remarkable.
Stability
- Pray for a continued reduction in lawlessness, this has been so evil.
- Pray for the economy to be stable (there are many factories closed and many offices/banks/shopping centers have been burnt and destroyed). Praise God that each day food does seem to be coming into the cities and the smaller stores seem to be getting supplies.
- Pray for ongoing safety for the vulnerable, and the poorest of the poor (particularly at night), for wise decisions about how to seek restitution of injustices.
Government
With the fall of the Ben Ali regime, there is now a new hope in Tunisia. We want to continue to pray for the formation of a new government and also that it would allow freedom of religion, freedom to the church, and freedom to worship the Lord Jesus Christ. It is too early to tell what a new government would look like, but the cry from the streets is for greater freedoms, less corruption and more opportunities. They have released many political prisoners, some of these would be communist, others fundamental islamist, and others would be from different political ideologies.
With the fall of the Ben Ali regime, there is now a new hope in Tunisia. We want to continue to pray for the formation of a new government and also that it would allow freedom of religion, freedom to the church, and freedom to worship the Lord Jesus Christ. It is too early to tell what a new government would look like, but the cry from the streets is for greater freedoms, less corruption and more opportunities. They have released many political prisoners, some of these would be communist, others fundamental islamist, and others would be from different political ideologies.
- It is a key time to be praying for the development of a government that does not push Tunisia in some other extreme way.
- Pray for wise leadership to arise; pray that they would rule with wisdom and righteousness.
- Pray for believers to be involved in a way that shows a good testimony.
Tunisian Church
- Pray for increased openness/boldness in people's conversations.
- Pray these conversations will lead to questions and answers that point people to His true way.
- Pray for wise decisions by local groups when they have opportunities to be light in darkness.
Minutes after Ben Ali said he would open the Internet up, people could get to YouTube and other sites for the first time, after they had been blocked for years. This also opened up many Arabic Christian sites that have been blocked. Pray that the opening of the Internet allows many to find out more about the Lord Jesus Christ.
Albania: Caravaning for peace
Totally overshadowed by the dramatic events in Tunisia and Egypt, thousands of Albanians have also been taking to the streets in desperation for just and stable national leadership. On 31 January Christians initiated a Caravan of Peace which gathered in front of Mother Therea's Monument in the square named after Albania's most famous daughter.
Arian Galdini is a young Albanian politician who for years has been trying to raise a Christian voice in the public square in this country, which once proudly proclaimed itself the world's first atheistic state. Inspired by the European Parliament Prayer Breakfast in Brussels he has initiated national prayer breakfasts in Tirana to bring the nation's top politicians together in a humble attitude of dependence on God.
Humility, however, is the last attitude being modelled presently in Albania by the conservative president, Sali Berisha, and the socialist opposition leader, Edi Rama. The nation has been polarised now for months as these two leaders have refused to dialogue and settle differences. The socialists accuse Berisha for rigging the 2009 national elections and demand his resignation. Berisha (who was at the centre of Albania's stormy upheavals around pyramid schemes in the late '90's) refuses to resign, and counter-accuses the opposition of attempting a coup d'etat. The two leaders have taken their feud onto the streets, mobilising their followers in massive demonstrations and counter-demonstrations. Ten days ago three socialist supporters were shot dead by police.
"As Christians, we must do what we can to be peacemakers."
Arian meanwhile has tried to rally academics and intellectuals, politicians and religious to drive a wedge for peace and calm between the two rival blocs. He has written articles for the main newspapers pleading for dialogue. He sent sms's to Berisha and Rama urging them to follow the paths of peace and dialogue, without response. The total control of the media by the two strong leaders has discouraged Arian. In his view, the media whip up emotions which do not serve justice, truth, peace and interests of the Albanian People; only militants voices are being heard.
Arian has written to contacts outside of Albania asking for prayer and wisdom. Today he and some colleagues will meet with the president. After that the group plan to declare a Hunger Strike for Peace in front of the prime minister's office. They expect the media to studiously ignore them. But they believe, as Christians, they must do what they can to be peacemakers. They ask for our prayer for peace and righteous government in their land. It's the least we can do.
Source: Arian Galdini, Jeff Fountain
Arian Galdini is a young Albanian politician who for years has been trying to raise a Christian voice in the public square in this country, which once proudly proclaimed itself the world's first atheistic state. Inspired by the European Parliament Prayer Breakfast in Brussels he has initiated national prayer breakfasts in Tirana to bring the nation's top politicians together in a humble attitude of dependence on God.
Humility, however, is the last attitude being modelled presently in Albania by the conservative president, Sali Berisha, and the socialist opposition leader, Edi Rama. The nation has been polarised now for months as these two leaders have refused to dialogue and settle differences. The socialists accuse Berisha for rigging the 2009 national elections and demand his resignation. Berisha (who was at the centre of Albania's stormy upheavals around pyramid schemes in the late '90's) refuses to resign, and counter-accuses the opposition of attempting a coup d'etat. The two leaders have taken their feud onto the streets, mobilising their followers in massive demonstrations and counter-demonstrations. Ten days ago three socialist supporters were shot dead by police.
"As Christians, we must do what we can to be peacemakers."
Arian meanwhile has tried to rally academics and intellectuals, politicians and religious to drive a wedge for peace and calm between the two rival blocs. He has written articles for the main newspapers pleading for dialogue. He sent sms's to Berisha and Rama urging them to follow the paths of peace and dialogue, without response. The total control of the media by the two strong leaders has discouraged Arian. In his view, the media whip up emotions which do not serve justice, truth, peace and interests of the Albanian People; only militants voices are being heard.
Arian has written to contacts outside of Albania asking for prayer and wisdom. Today he and some colleagues will meet with the president. After that the group plan to declare a Hunger Strike for Peace in front of the prime minister's office. They expect the media to studiously ignore them. But they believe, as Christians, they must do what they can to be peacemakers. They ask for our prayer for peace and righteous government in their land. It's the least we can do.
Source: Arian Galdini, Jeff Fountain
Pray for Egypt
Please keep Egypt in your strong prayers for the situation there. This just came in from Cairo:
“Thank you so much for your call. I praise God for his mighty hands with us. Internet came back just one hour ago, we are holding prayer meetings in the morning, and a 24 hour prayer from the homes. We appreciate your joining in prayer with us, Tahrir square, is becoming a fire war spot, those opposing Moubarak are fighting now against others, violence is becoming more and more escalating. We are praying for protection, coverage, because Satan is so live here.. We hope and pray it will turn for the good of Egypt, AMEN.”
Some other friends pass on the request for prayer from another Christian leader: “A main prayer request for now is how the protestors will respond to Mubarak's announcement and the transition that needs to begin to bring things into order and stability again. There are more demonstrations planned for the next few days to continue putting pressure on Mubarak to leave. The protestors are calling for an even larger gathering this Friday during which the demonstrators will demand that Mubarak to leave office now. Pray that the Lord's will be done in this time of decision and the coming transition!”
Please pray for His peace to be upon the nation, for order and stability to be restored quickly and that radical elements will not be able to exploit and hijack this legitimate protest and call for political change. Pray also for God’s people who must live and pray through the uncertainty there that He will give them clarity on their role. May His good purpose to bring about a more just, free society for the good of all be accomplished!
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